Colne teen’s tragic story to be retold in educational video

Heartbroken relatives and friends have relived the painful moment a popular Pendle teenager’s life was cut short as part of their mission to help save lives.

Former Park High School student James Goodship (17) died after drowning in Lake Burwain, Foulridge, in June, on one of the hottest days of the year.

And now his family and pals have shared their memories of the tragic day as they filmed an educational video about water safety for Lancashire Fire and Rescue.

The three-hour filming session took place on Saturday at James’ memorial garden, where work is ongoing, and Colne Citadel. It was attended by his mum and dad Mel and Pete Goodship, his siblings Lauren and Thomas, Mel’s partner Emlyn, Emlyn’s son Jack, and James’ pals Liam and Keaton, who were with him on the day of his death.

Mel (41) said: “It was tough, and it was emotional, but we were all aware of that and expected that.

“It was for a good cause to raise awareness, and the fire and rescue service are hoping to launch it in April.

“Keaton went into the water, so he was able to give an account of just how cold the water was and how it affected him.

“We were asked how the day started, what sort of day it was, what we were doing, where we were when we found out, and how we felt.

“We have a lot of open water surrounding us, and although we are fortunate to live in a beautiful area, we ultimately need to get across the importance of how dangerous open water is.”

Lancashire Fire and Rescue confirmed the video is in the early stages of production, and that a programme of visits to schools will be set up to allow firefighters to share the educational package.

A spokesman said: “We were approached by the family, who wanted to do something to stop this ever happening to another young person and their family.

“We said we would, and we are pulling together an educational package, including a video.

“We are hoping to get the message across before the weather picks up, and stop the temptation of going out on hot days and going in open water.

“We have a good relationship with schools in Lancashire, and this will be an addition to that - an addition that we think will be one of the most memorable and powerful.”